University of Twente Student Theses
Positive Psychology Interventions (PPIs) for Parental Stress in Parents of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities : A Systematic Review
Velikova, Simona (2024) Positive Psychology Interventions (PPIs) for Parental Stress in Parents of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities : A Systematic Review.
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| Full Text Status: | Access to this publication is restricted |
| Embargo date: | 1 May 2026 |
| Abstract: | The current systematic literature review focuses on positive psychology interventions (PPIs) for parental stress in parents of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) affect not only the child, but also pose unique challenges for the parents and caregivers, leading to them experiencing higher levels of stress, and symptoms of depression and anxiety when compared to parents of neurotypical children. To this end, the current review investigates how Positive Psychology Interventions (PPIs) can alleviate these challenges by enhancing parental well-being and reducing negative symptoms such as depression or anxiety by focusing on positive aspects, building strengths, and learning healthier coping strategies. This review sought to create an extensive overview of existing PPIs and their functions, as well as to answer the following research questions: (a) What type/format of positive psychology interventions have been used to improve parental well-being among parents of children with NDDs? (b) What mental health components have been targeted with the interventions? and (c) What are the parent’s experiences and needs regarding positive psychology interventions? Through a comprehensive examination of existing literature across the databases PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus, 10 studies meeting inclusion criteria were analyzed. Various PPIs were identified, including self-compassion interventions, mentalization interventions, (virtual) resiliency interventions, perspective-taking interventions, gratitude interventions, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and positive adult development programs. These interventions targeted mental health components such as stress, depression, stigma, distress, anxiety, self-esteem, self-efficacy, well-being, and insomnia, yielding small to medium effects. While qualitative data on parents' experiences and needs regarding PPIs were limited, the review underscores important possibilities for future research and discussion, highlighting gaps in literature and offering implications for practice. Overall, the review highlights the significance of PPIs in supporting the well-being of parents and caregivers of children with NDDs, pointing towards the potential for further exploration and implementation in this critical area. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/98848 |
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